Longitudinal Relationship Between Intramuscular Fat in the Quadriceps and Gait Independence in Convalescent Stroke Patients

In stroke patients, secondary changes in the skeletal muscles, including decreased muscle mass and increased intramuscular fat, have been examined after stroke onset.1 These changes are greater on the paretic side than on the non-paretic side.2,3 In chronic stroke survivors, these secondary changes in skeletal muscles are associated with decreased muscle strength,4 gait independence,5 and aerobic exercise capacity.6 Furthermore, Ryan et al.2 have reported that increased intramuscular fat in stroke patients is associated with decreased insulin sensitivity.
Source: Journal of Stroke and Cerebrovascular Diseases - Category: Neurology Authors: Source Type: research